F - FRANCISCANS

I write my latest (and long-overdue) entry from a computer in a Franciscan Friary in San Miguel, California.

I came here on Friday for a short weekend retreat on Franciscan spirituality. I was supposed to leave Sunday. It's Monday and I'm still here. I left yesterday, drove about 2 miles up the road, and... SsssssssSSSsssss!!! Smoke and steam. Seems the ol' coolant level was a little low. Long story short, I'm back at the mission while a friar-friendly mechanic (he does their cars) down the road has a look. I'm awaiting his call.

The Friars and novices here have been incredibly welcoming. There is a spirit to the Franciscans that is so refreshing. The men here make it easy to imagine what Francis himself was like. Times like this are life to me, and I really needed this right now.

I've been in the midst of a lot of doubt and confusion about God's calling on my life. While there are still more than a few question marks over my head, there is also a much greater degree of peace. It's amazing what waking up at 6 in the morning can do for you. Simple prayers. Love and friendship. Christ himself in the Eucharist, giving himself freely, so that I can give myself to him. In times and places like this, my heart opens wide, like a baby bird to his mother.

I don't know if I'll end up with the Franciscans one day. Maybe. I do know that, with or without the collar, God has made me a priest, and Francis and his Little Brothers will always be a great part of what makes me me.

Praised be You, my Lord, with all your creatures, especially Sir Brother Sun,
Who is the day and through whom You give us light...

Praised be You, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars,
in heaven you formed them clear and precious and beautiful....

Praised be You, my Lord, through those who give pardon for Your Love,
and bear infirmity and tribulation.

Blessed are those who endure in peace,
for by You, Most High, shall they be crowned....

Praise and bless my Lord and give him thanks,
and serve him with great humility.